Retinol for sensitive skin exists, and many non-drying, shopper-loved options are on sale at Amazon ahead of Prime Big Deal Days. Shop gentle anti-aging retinol creams starting at $18.

Including one that made a shopper “glow” after three days.

Sometimes, the fact that I avoided retinol for many years makes me incredulous. Though I’m a relatively recent devotee to the skin-firming-wrinkle-warrior, I’ve already noticed changes in my complexion. I only wish I’d tried the ingredient sooner—but, like many people, my fear of its side effects (redness, irritation, flaking) outweighed my curiosity for the golden child of anti-aging actives. Last year, however, I realized gentle, non-drying—and even sensitive skin-friendly—retinol products actually exist.

Take, for instance, a handful of options I found at Amazon—all of which boast ample acclaim from people with sensitive skin. Better yet, they’re all on sale at Amazon, starting at $18, ahead of Prime Big Deal Days. Whether you’ve yet to begin your retinol journey, or you’ve nixed the stuff in light of skin-sensitizing side effects, you’re bound to love these effective yet gentle options. 

Amazon Gentle Retinol Deals

Cocokind Beginner Retinol Gel 0.1%, $19 (Originally $27) Advanced Clinicals Retinol Body Lotion, $18 (Originally $25) Neutrogena Retinol and Vitamin C Correcting Cream, $26 (Originally $45)  Bliss Youth Got This Pure Retinol Deep Hydration Moisturizer, $16 (Originally $29) LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream, $18 (Originally $30) Eight Saints Retinol Facial Moisturizer Cream, $38 with coupon (Originally $44) Naturium Retinol Complex Serum, $15 (Originally $21)

Cocokind Beginner Retinol Gel 0.1%

$27 $19 at Amazon

True to its name, this low-dose gel-serum is perfect for retinol newbies—and similarly perfect for ultra-sensitive skin types. Case in point: One shopper, who was formerly “unable” to use retinol due to their “sensitive skin,” calls Cocokind’s gel “gentle,” and irritation-free. In addition to three forms of slow-release retinol, the formula features centella asiatica. Also known as cica and tiger grass, it’s highly soothing, even on irritated skin (hence its presence in many eczema-calming creams). As for its presence in Cocokind’s gel, it calms inflammation and prevents retinol-induced redness. Aloe vera—often found in sunburn tonics thanks to its inflammation-quelling qualities—also deeply hydrates. In turn, the ingredient staves off retinol’s drying side effects and delivers a plump, dewy complexion instead. 

Advanced Clinicals Retinol Body Lotion 

$25 $18 at Amazon

A favorite among InStyle readers and Amazon shoppers—more than 6,000 of whom have given it a perfect rating—is this versatile face and body cream that simultaneously soothes sensitive skin and tightens crepiness. Calming chamomile and aloe vera offset potential redness and flaking. Despite its gentleness, the formula is tough on wrinkles. According to one fan, the cream eradicated creases on their décolletage, making them feel “wonderful” instead of “self-conscious” about their “aging” skin. 

Neutrogena Retinol and Vitamin C Correcting Cream

$45 $26 at Amazon

(Not so) fun fact: Vitamin C, an excellent brightener and antioxidant, can also irritate sensitive complexions. Should you find yourself in that category, consider this lightweight cream shoppers deem “sensitive skin-friendly.” One reviewer with “ridiculously sensitive” skin has relied on the product “for years.” Another fan noticed a boost in “glow” within “three days,” and understandably so given the ingredients. Retinol speeds cellular turnover to reveal fresh skin, while vitamin C erases dark spots for a more even-toned complexion. 

Shop more gentle, sensitive skin-friendly retinol at Amazon ahead of Prime Big Deal Days.

Bliss Youth Got This Pure Retinol Deep Hydration Moisturizer

$29 $16 at Amazon

LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream

$30 $18 at Amazon

Eight Saints Retinol Facial Moisturizer

$44 $38 at Amazon

Naturium Retinol Complex Serum

$21 $15 at Amazon